Trader Joe’s is a very well-loved grocery store, known for its unique snacks and meals with fun twists. The smaller portions and more affordable prices make it the ideal choice for college students, smaller families and people cooking for just themselves. 

42 states in the US have at least one Trader Joe’s and Montana is not one of those. California has the most stores in a single state, with 193 stores.

For many, it’s a necessity to visit Trader Joe’s when they travel out of state, and seeing that the closest Trader Joe’s to Missoula is a 3-hour drive to Spokane, it’s hardly convenient for most people looking to take a quick trip to the grocery store.  

Not only is the store very well-loved, but it’s very smart when it comes to its marketing techniques. The store gives off an intimate and local vibe, despite being a very large chain, by occupying a smaller store and displaying handwritten signs in store and adorable packaging that has a homemade look about it. 

“Trader Joe’s makes it feel like a local business by the way they brand it.” said Gemma Ryan, Hellgate Senior.

“It’s a really good source for people who are short on time but also like interesting things,” said Hellgate English teacher, Anna Bacon. “I think it would be awesome to have one here because it’s not only affordable, but they have a lot of great options, they also have lots of tasty snacks.” 

Some fan favorites at Trader Joe’s include their Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups, Soup Dumplings, Cauliflower Gnocchi, Portuguese Custard Tarts and Mac and Cheese Bites.

If you feel strongly about this topic, you can take action now by going to the Trader Joe’s website and filling out the request a store page.